Tottenham Hotspur are eyeing a January move for Napoli star Scott McTominay
Tottenham Hotspur’s midfield dilemma continues to trouble Thomas Frank as he searches for a long-term solution midway through the season.
The partnership of Joao Palhinha and Rodrigo Bentancur have solidified Spurs’ midfield, adding a layer of protection in front of the backline that was time and again exposed last term. However, neither of them are progressive passers of the ball as they often tend to keep it safe while recycling possession.
Given how crucial a progressive midfielder is in Thomas Frank’s system, the absence of a seasoned box-to-box presence in the squad could prove costly if it isn’t addressed in the upcoming transfer window. Tottenham are in dire need of a player who can partner Palhinha in the double pivot, control the tempo of play and chip in with odd goals.
Tottenham eye move for Napoli midfielder
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Tottenham are keen on signing Napoli midfielder Scott McTominay. Spurs want to bring him back to England, but face competition from fellow Premier League club Newcastle United. Spanish champions Barcelona have added the Scotland international to their three-man shortlist to fortify their midfield next year.
Scott McTominay moved to Napoli from Manchester United in the summer of 2024 and instantly became a fan favourite, winning the Serie A MVP for the 2024/25 campaign. He led Napoli to the Scudetto, scoring 12 goals in his first season, winning Player of the Year and award and also finishing 18th in the prestigious Ballon d’Or. The midfielder has started the 2025/26 campaign well with four goals and an assist in 10 appearances across all competitions.
Having become such a crucial cog in Antonio Conte’s side, Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has no intention of selling McTominay in January. The 28-year-old is under contract with the Naples-based side until 2028 and is extremely happy in the city, the report adds. However, a 2026 summer move back to the Premier League cannot be ruled out.
Difficult deal to crack for Spurs
McTominay did well during his time at Man United after emerging through their ranks, and has certainly been excellent in Napoli. He could provide Tottenham with the legs in midfield and the end product they currently lack in the final third. The big Scot’s power, ball-carrying ability and finishing skills in and around the box makes him an attractive option for Spurs, who are desperate to add more cutting edge in the attacking third.
Players like Lucas Bergvall, Rodrigo Bentancur, and Pape Matar Sarr bring defensive stability, but none of them possess the ability to carry the ball through tight spaces or create meaningful chances from midfield. This is where McTominay would add a different dimension to Frank’s midfield unit. At 28, the ex-Man United star is in his prime and could offer an immediate upgrade to the Danish boss’ midfield setup without disrupting the club’s long-term vision.
With the Scotland international tied down until 2028 and a key player in Conte’s system, a January deal won’t be straightforward for Spurs, unless our club bosses decide to pay over the odds. If the Lilywhites can bring in the experienced McTominay in January, he could prove decisive in their push for a top-four finish and deep run in the Champions League.
